ARTISANworks

I’ve heard ARTISANworks described as a walk-through kaleidoscope, a bombardment on the senses, a 360° canvas, a space that defies all boundaries, a place that can’t be described but must be seen, surprising, inspiring, and in some instances shocking. If you’re a true Rochesterian, you’ll relate when I say that ARTISANworks is the House of Guitars of the visual arts world.

I enjoyed this statement from RocWiki: “It’s a great place to take out-of-town visitors, small children, sullen teenagers, or bored Rochesterians who think they’ve seen it all.”

Another fun review on their Facebook page reads, “I’ve lived in Rochester for 22 years, and today was the first time I entered the main building of the Artisan Works. It was like walking into Narnia. I think every neuron in my brain lighted up as I continued to walk around the 30,000 sq. ft. of sheer art of the highest caliber. 4 hours passed by without noticing. Positive sensory overload humbles you.”

ARTISANworks is open Friday through Sunday, with free public tours offered Saturdays & Sundays at 2 pm. An introductory tour definitely prepares you to navigate the maze of hallways and rooms on your own later.

You won’t really get lost, but it is great to have a guide share stories about the collections, and to point out some well-known artists. Look closely and you will find original works by Picasso, Remington, Ansel Adams, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, and Frank Lloyd Wright. You could have a lot of fun setting up a scavenger hunt here!

ARTISANworks has an enormous collection by Rochester’s own Ramon Santiago

The Frank Lloyd Wright Room

I miss being able to climb the spiral staircase and look down at the dining room. It was such a cozy space with lots of little things to absorb.

The majority of art is local, with many pieces created on site. While you are wandering, you’ll likely come across an artist-in-residence working on a new piece or exhibit. Everyone I have met has been open to conversation and questions. This makes it truly a space “where art lives”. The studios are integrated into the museum itself.

My favorite painting in ARTISANworks

I can’t explain why, but each time I see it I’m drawn in. You’ll find this and more in the hallway connecting the firehouse room and the creepy dentist room. Intriguing prospect, right?